When the Community Service tour was announced a few months ago, it was with the promise of staging electronic acts within the same setting and pacing as rock shows. Not only did the tours final stop at the Long Beach Convention Center (7/24) play like a full blown concert, the entire package was beyond wildest expectations.

With a single stage and none of the normal midway type rave festivities, the triple bill of Lo Fidelity Allstars, Crystal Method and Orbital dazzled a young and energetic crowd. The convention center played a perfect host to the festivities, allowing fans to pack against the stage or dance freely around the perimeter.

Openers Lo-Fi, were the only group to dare whip out a guitar, but it was all within the context of their funky sonic brew. Their rich sound and energy level was well received during their brief set.

Crystal Method then turned up the heat with an hour long set comprised mostly of new material. Having been over two years since their debut release, it was interesting to hear the duo go off in a new, less hook driven direction. Their next album will surely pack the punch of big beats and a more eclectic sound. Having put this year's tour together, Crystal Method promised to be back again next year, much to the crowds delight.

After a brief set change, headliners Orbital took the stage to thunderous applause. Widely regarded as today's best touring electronic act, the Hartnoll brothers surpassed their reputation. Donning their trademark flashlight goggles, the brothers frantically bounced around behind their bank of equipment and in front of rotating video screens.

Featuring material from their latest release, The Middle of Nowhere, Orbital sounded razor sharp with a clarity and intensity rarely reproduced live. Throughout their hour forty-five minute set, the duo never lost the attention of the audience. Instead, they built to a solid frenzy that wore off only as people were headed to the parking lots.

Even with a few technical glitches that paused the show, it's hard to imagine things having gone any better. The sound and mix was electric and the entire show flew by in the blink of an eye. If you're still of the mindset that electronic music is not a ''live'' experience, it's time to start thinking out of the box. Rest assured though, hopefully you can jump on the bandwagon for next years Community Service tour.